3D technology company files multiple patent lawsuit in US

A US company that licenses three-dimensional technology used in cinemas has filed a patent lawsuit against two other companies in the industry.

California-based RealD has accused MasterImage 3D and Volfoni of infringing four of its patents related to its 3D technology.

RealD says its patents, US Numbers 8,220,934, 7,857,455, 7,959,296, and 7,905,602, have been infringed by MasterImage 3D through its MI-Horizon3D products, and Volfoni for its SmartCrystal Diamond product.

All the asserted patents are related to the company’s XL Cinema System, which enables 3D films to be shown on bigger screens, RealD said in a complaint filed at the US District Court for the Central District of California.

The “defendants have been and are indirectly infringing one or more claims … by actively inducing customers and or users to use, sell, offer for sale, and or import in or into the US, without authority,” RealD said in its complaint.

RealD said it has a “significant patent position” around its XL Cinema System and that the technology is used in countries including the US, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Canada and India as well as throughout Europe.

“Over the years, RealD has invested heavily in research and development to ensure a premium visual experience for our customers, partners and consumers around the world. As a result, we place great value on our IP,” said Michael Lewis, chairman and chief executive of RealD.

“We will vigorously enforce IP rights for all of our products,” Lewis added.

RealD is seeking a ruling that both companies “wilfully” infringed all of the patents, reasonable damages and an injunction or royalties.

The “defendants’ infringement will continue to damage RealD, causing irreparable harm for which there is no adequate remedy at law, unless enjoined by the court,” RealD added in its complaint.

MasterImage 3D and Volfoni did not respond immediately to requests for comment.